Chalice Lighters

The MDD board is currently in discussion about the format of the Chalice Lighter program and there are no open calls at this time. Nevertheless, you may always donate to the Mountain Desert District Chalice Lighters Undesignated Fund at the MDD online donation page. If you have automated withdrawals scheduled, be assured those funds are continuing to go into the general MDD Chalice Lighter fund. As we receive details from the board, we will post program updates here. In the meantime, if you have questions, feel free to contact the MDD board.

Program Description

The idea Rev. Alan Egly had in the early 1980s, that many UUs might be willing to contribute occasionally to help a congregation that needed a boost, was a good one. Egly, Minister Emeritus of both the Burlington congregation and the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Quad Cities passed away on January 31, 2016 at the age of 84. He saw his idea implemented in the Prairie Star District through the district’s Extension Committee. The program became known as Chalice Lighters and has spread to other UUA districts. It has raised more than $2 million nationwide.

The idea is simple. Ask individual UUs if they’d be willing to contribute $20 or more up to three times a year to help congregations in their district complete a special project linked to growth. Egly adapted the concept from another denomination and said, “It’s not a completely original idea, but I’m proud to claim it.”

The Chalice Lighter program assists the growth of member congregations in the Mountain Desert District, providing grants that are funded through contributions from Unitarian Universalists who participate as Chalice Lighters. The Chalice Lighter program gives individuals an opportunity to provide financial support and extend Unitarian Universalism in the District.

Chalice Lighter grants help congregations by providing funds for such things as:

starting a new congregation

helping a congregation call a minister or other religious professional

assisting in the purchase, improvement, or furnishing of a building

contributing to other outreach projects that further growth

Become a Chalice Lighter!

Your generous contribution joins with over 400 others to support the growth of our liberal religion in the Mountain Desert District. The more Chalice Lighters we have, the more we can support our growing congregations. And, by being a Chalice Lighter, you help your congregation qualify for a Chalice Lighter grant.

When you become a Chalice Lighter, three times a year you will receive a “call” or email letter, explaining the purpose of the call and asking for your donation of at least $20. Or, you may make an annual donation and designate that it be divided between the three calls for that year. MDD is a 501(c) (3) tax-exempt organization and your donation is tax deductible.